INSPECTOR PLANT INDUSTRY, BIOLOGICAL CONTROL
DEFINITION:
Under the limited supervision of a supervisory official in the Division of Plant Industry, Department of Agriculture, performs field work of average difficulty related to the biological control of plant pests (insects, diseases, and weeds); does other related duties as required.
NOTE: The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.
EXAMPLES OF WORK:
Inspects forest, ornamental, and agricultural crops to determine the presence and extent of plant pests, diseases, weeds, and biological control agents using recommended inspection procedures.
Plants and maintains field plots of certain agricultural commodities using commercial farm machinery or equipment to implement biological control programs of plant pests, diseases, and weeds.
Performs field work involving the release of biological control agents to control plant pests.
Applies chemical and/or biological pesticides on field plots using backpack and/or tractor driven sprayers to control plant pests, diseases, and weeds.
Conducts seasonal surveys of plant pests, diseases, and weeds injurious to farm crops, forests, nursery and ornamental plantings, and established and/or released biological control agents to monitor the pest and biological control agent populations; uses recommended survey procedures, maps, and equipment.
Conducts inspections; reports on the findings of plant pest problems as indicated by farmers and others to provide a basis for biological control recommendations by supervisors.
Performs field work involving the collection of specimens to make accurate identification of pests and control agents; utilizes recommended collecting techniques.
Prepares written reports of inspections, collections, surveys, and biological pest control activities to provide a basis for supervisory decisions.
Establishes and maintains essential records and files.
Will be required to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
REQUIREMENTS:
EXPERIENCE:
One (1) year of experience in plant pest inspection or insect biological control.
LICENSE:
Appointees may be required to obtain a license as a Commercial Pesticide Applicator issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection within one year of appointment.
Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform essential duties of the position.
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of the types of forest, ornamental, and agricultural crops grown in the Northeastern United States.
Knowledge of the most common plant pests and diseases indigenous to the Northeastern United States’ forest, ornamental, and agricultural crops.
Knowledge of the theories and principles involved in the biological control of plant pests.
Knowledge of the methods used to conduct field inspections and surveys.
Knowledge of the operation and routine maintenance of farm equipment or machinery.
Knowledge of conventional and no-till farming practices used in New Jersey.
Knowledge of pesticide application methods and equipment.
Knowledge of the safety procedures used in pesticide application.
Knowledge of the methods used to collect and maintain specimens.
Ability to read and interpret maps and compasses and take field measurements.
Ability to make mathematical calculations.
Ability to inspect and identify plants, plant pests, and biological control agents.
Ability to operate and maintain various types of farm equipment and machinery.
Ability to lift and carry loads of fifty pounds.
Ability to carry and operate a backpack type sprayer.
Ability to learn quickly from oral and written instructions and from demonstrations.
Ability to conduct field work quickly and accurately.
Ability to prepare detailed written reports and analysis of inspection containing findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
Ability to work independently and with others in a courteous and cooperative manner.
Ability to maintain essential records and files.
Ability to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication.
Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible if they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.
This job specification is applicable to the following title code:
